Substitute Teacher - job 7 of 17

As a Substitute Teacher at Guidepost Montessori, you will be responsible for providing support to multiple mixed-age classrooms in Jacksonville, Florida. Your duties will include following lesson plans left by the absent teacher, ensuring a positive and engaging classroom environment, and maintaining the safety and well-being of students during their time in class. You'll have the flexibility to work when needed, as this is an on-call position, and you can expect to interact with a variety of age groups in a nurturing Montessori setting.

To become a Substitute Teacher at Guidepost Montessori in Jacksonville, you should possess a negative TB test within the last 12 months, a valid state background check, and strong interpersonal skills. While formal Montessori training is not required, having early childhood education (ECE) units or recent teaching experience with children aged 0-6 is preferred. If you love working with children and have a warm, friendly demeanor, you could be a great fit for this role.

Absolutely! Guidepost Montessori provides training as a part of your orientation and onboarding process. You'll receive comprehensive training and resources to ensure you're well-prepared to step into the classroom. This support is an integral aspect of your role as a Substitute Teacher, allowing you to feel confident while engaging with students and following the Montessori method.

As a Substitute Teacher at Guidepost Montessori, you'll be part of an on-call list, meaning you'll be contacted as needed for coverage when full-time teachers are unavailable. The hours and days you work will vary based on the school's needs, giving you the flexibility to choose when you’d like to work. This system is designed to accommodate your schedule while ensuring that students receive the support they need.

At Guidepost Montessori, many of our Substitute Teachers have transitioned into full-time Assistant Teacher positions as openings become available. Working as a Substitute is a fantastic way to familiarize yourself with our teaching style and school culture, while also making connections within the community. Your experience and interactions can pave the way for future career opportunities within the organization.

To engage students, I would first familiarize myself with the lesson plans left by the full-time teacher and adapt them as needed to appeal to the students’ interests. Incorporating hands-on activities, interactive discussions, and varying instructional methods allows every child to participate in the learning process meaningfully.

Effective classroom management involves establishing clear expectations and building a respectful rapport with students. I'd incorporate positive reinforcement strategies, maintain a calm demeanor, and redirect inappropriate behaviors gently to ensure a productive and positive learning environment.

In a previous role, I encountered a child who was upset and disruptive during class. I approached them calmly, recognized their feelings, and offered them a safe space to express themselves. By listening and understanding their perspective, we were able to find a solution together, which turned the situation around.

The Montessori method emphasizes child-centered learning, promoting independence, and allowing children to learn at their own pace. As a Substitute Teacher, I would encourage exploration and hands-on activities while providing a supportive environment that fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Prioritization involves both planning and flexibility. I’d outline immediate tasks based on the day's lesson plan while remaining open to spontaneous teaching moments or student inquiries. It's essential to balance the curriculum needs with supporting individual student needs.

If I notice a child facing challenges, I would first engage with them to understand their perspective. I would then collaborate with the full-time teacher to formulate appropriate strategies and interventions, ensuring the child feels supported both academically and socially in the classroom environment.

Ensuring safety begins with establishing clear rules and expectations, as well as preparing the classroom to minimize hazards. I would also remain vigilant and attentive to students' needs, readily available to assist and supervise them throughout the school day.

My motivation comes from the joy of working with children and witnessing their growth and curiosity. Being a Substitute Teacher offers me the chance to contribute positively to their learning experiences while exploring diverse classroom dynamics and educational environments.

Adapting lesson plans involves differentiating instruction based on students’ varying abilities and learning styles. I would use visual aids, hands-on materials, and varied group activities to engage all learners actively and meaningfully in the lesson content.

Flexibility is the most vital quality for a Substitute Teacher. Each day presents unique challenges, and being adaptable allows me to create a positive learning environment, respond to students' needs effectively, and ensure continuity in their education even when the full-time teacher is absent.